NSCDC Officers Face Dismissal Over Minna Detainee Deaths

A presidentially directed investigative committee, chaired by Jonathan Kure, has recommended the summary dismissal and prosecution of officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) involved in the deaths of 33 detainees in Minna, Niger State. The committee's report, presented to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, outlines that the incident was an “entirely preventable” tragedy due to severe overcrowding and inadequate detention conditions.

The report, spanning 65 pages, examined the treatment of suspects detained between September 15 and 17, 2026, during NSCDC operations against illegal mining. It concluded that the victims died from environmental asphyxia rather than a disease outbreak.

The committee criticized the operation for lacking an approved operational order and proper planning, resulting in detainees being held in a poorly ventilated cell. It also recommended N1.4 billion in compensation for the families of the victims and survivors.